Getting into a car crash is a jarring, scary experience that most people will not encounter more than once or twice in their lives. It can be difficult to know how to react. Read on for advice on how to behave right after getting into a car accident. If you have been hurt in a car crash in the Bronx, call a passionate and effective New York car crash attorney.
Pull over & check for injuries
The first thing to do after any traffic accident is to get to a safe place. Pull over to the side of the road if it is safe and you are able. Check for injuries–yourself, your passengers, and the occupants of other vehicles involved. If anyone is seriously hurt, including yourself, call 911 immediately.
Call the authorities
After any crash involving injury or property damage, call the police. New York law requires it. Moreover, especially if you have been injured, the police investigation and report will become a key piece of evidence to bolster your case.
Exchange contact information
If the other driver(s) involved flee the scene, try to snap a photo of their license plate or write it down. If they remain at the scene, exchange contact information, including driver’s license number, VIN, license plate number, contact information, and insurance information.
Get medical attention
If you need emergency medical care, call an ambulance, or otherwise get yourself to a hospital as soon as you can. Even if your injuries do not appear severe, you should still see a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the crash. You could have latent injuries, such as organ bruising, a concussion, or internal bleeding. Additionally, by seeing a doctor soon after the accident, you undercut any argument by the other driver or an insurance provider that your injuries arose from anything other than the crash.
Collect evidence – photos, witness information, police report, etc.
Once you and your passengers are safe and secure, start gathering evidence. Take photos of your injuries, your passengers, all the vehicles involved (including damage), and the surrounding area–traffic signs, stoplights, the weather, etc. Get the contact information for any witnesses so your attorney and the police can later speak with them. Keep copies of any documents generated in connection with the crash including the police report, medical reports, and communications with your insurance company.
Report the accident
Even if the accident was not your fault, you will still want to report it to your insurance company. You should also report the crash to the provider for the at-fault driver.
Protect your rights
If you might have a claim for injury or property damage, you need the services of a qualified and effective New York car accident lawyer. Get in touch with a seasoned personal injury attorney as soon as possible to start building your case and protecting your rights.
Get Help After Your Bronx Car Crash
If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a car crash in New York, find out if you’re entitled to money damages for your injuries by contacting the dedicated and trial-ready New York car accident lawyers at the Bronx offices of the Kohn Law Firm for a free consultation at 718-409-1200.